A cruising coot
On Thanksgiving, before the feast, we took a walk at the nearby Trustom Pond National Wildlife Refuge. It was a beautiful day, as have been so many this month. We always think of November as gloomy and cold, but this month has been largely glorious.
I thought this tree in the brown meadow looked almost like the scenes I saw when I went to Africa.
Almost like the Serengeti
The refuge isn’t that large, but it’s interesting. There are two points you can walk out to, each with an observation platform. The platforms look out onto another important feature: a huge salt pond which is separated from the open ocean by a narrow barrier beach on the far side. This is a wintering area for numerous duck species. On this day there was a mixed flock of black ducks, coot and scaup with a few eiders and mergansers thrown in.
Many of these ducks are here for the winter
On the way back, I had to take a photo of this venerable swamp maple, looking very gnarled and beautiful in the watery November light.
Everyone I talk to seems surprised that I like this month and this time of year. I find it restful and relaxing, with everything going to sleep for the winter. You can see the nests in the bare tree branches, and hiking is cool and pleasant. My advice to those who keep whining about November is: get outside more.
Digging RI 
I love November, too, dirtynailz. It may be my favorite month, actually. I love the colors that are still here in the south. My old hickory tree has given up all its golden leaves now and the oaks are hanging on to a few leaves. It’s gorgeous! We get to see the bones of our gardens, right? (And all the things that need to be trimmed away.)
Your “Serengeti” photo is amazing. I can see the “ghost” of a gazelle or antelope at the tree. The swamp maple is mesmerizing.
Thanks for sharing these amazing photos.
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So glad you enjoyed them, CJ. I have never spent an autumn in the south. It must be gorgeous.
Remember, you have a standing invitation to post here any time the spirit moves you…..
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Thank you! Is there a way to contact you other than through the comments?
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Hiking is cool and pleasant – I’m with you every step of the way. The sun is starting to flex his muscles here!
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I’d rather hike at this time of year than in the summer, that’s for sure. I was out today for about three hours and the light was fantastic. I guess you’re preparing for the heat….It must be wicked where you live.
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